The Fear of Silence

How Can We Move From Existential Angst to Contemplative Awe?

We are afraid
Of pain but more afraid of silence; for no nightmare
Of hostile objects could be as terrible as this Void.
This is the Abomination. This is the wrath of God. — W. H. Auden

W.H. Auden (1907-1973) is known primarily as a major 20th century poet (famous for “The Age of Anxiety” a…